Wild daffodil

Wild daffodils differ from the garden (or cultivated) variety, and, despite being found throughout the UK, are a declining species due to habitat loss.

Four flowers with bright yellow trumpet sections and yellow-white petals stand tall on thin, green stems

Daffodil facts

Scientific name: Narcissus pseudonarcissus

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Origin: Native

Type: Perennial

Wild daffodils and our canals

Instantly recognisable due to their distinct shape and colour, wild daffodils often bloom along canal banks and neighbouring woodlands. This perennial offers an early source of nectar for pollinators including bees and butterflies, whilst slugs and snails are attracted to the buds and flowers. However, they are poisonous to many mammals including dogs, cats and livestock.

Native daffodils are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, meaning it's against the law to pick, uproot or destroy them.

Canal habitats
Find out more about the habitats where wild daffodils grow
Canal habitats
Find out more about the habitats where wild daffodils grow

What do wild daffodils look like?

Wild daffodils have creamy-yellow petals which surround a more vibrant yellow trumpet section in the centre, and only grow to around 20-30cm tall. They grow in small clusters, and their stems and leaves are grey-green in appearance.

What's the difference between wild and garden daffodils?

There are a variety of cultivated daffodil species, which tend to be brighter and bolder than wild ones. The most common garden daffodils have bright yellow petals and an orange trumpet, and can reach up to 50cm tall. Wild daffodils appear more delicate and dainty.

If you come across a daffodil in a woodland, damp meadow or by a riverbank, it's likely to be a wild species. If you see neat groups of them in parks, gardens or along roadsides then these are probably cultivated.

You can see the difference between the two in the images below.

Close up of daffodils on the towpath in front of a canal with a bridge in the distance.

Where to find wild daffodils

Look for wild daffodils in damp woodland and meadow areas, as well as close to canal and river banks. They thrive in shady areas, preferring moist soil and dappled light.